Filipino Cultural Center Opens in Seoul

The Philippine Embassy in Seoul led by the Philippine Ambassador to South Korea Raul S. Hernandez, together with the Chairman of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) Professor Felipe M. de Leon Jr., inaugurated Sentro Rizal Seoul on March 6, 2016, on the 2nd floor of the Embassy Chancery.

Sentro Rizal Seoul is the 17th cultural promotion office to open in Philippine diplomatic missions around the world and the third formal inauguration arranged with the NCCA.

Established under the virtue of the National Culture Heritage of 2009, Sentro Rizal is dedicated to promoting Filipino arts, culture, and language globally. Named in honor of the national hero Dr. José Rizal, it’s principal mission is to educate children of overseas Filipinos about their roots.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by over 50 guests, which included representatives from the Seoul Metropolitan Government, Korea Culture Association, Seoul Global Center, and Multicultural Museum, as well as leaders and members of different Filipino community organizations across Korea.

Ambassador Hernandez spoke during the ceremony and underscored the relevance of establishing Sentro Rizal Seoul. He stated, “For us here in South Korea, the establishment of Sentro Rizal Seoul will form a critical part in our efforts to implement programs that will promote and enhance the Philippines’ national image in Korea.”

“It is also in line with our advocacy to educate the numerous Filipino-Korean children of their roots, history, and values. We envisage Sentro Rizal Seoul to be an effective platform for promoting the history, language, beauty, and greatness of the Philippines.”

After the inauguration ceremony, Chairman de Leon gave a two-hour lecture on Filipino identity and culture entitled “What Makes Filipinos Filipino?” The lecture was attended by Filipino professors, students, and community leaders.

The headquarters is located in Intramuros, Manila. Sentro Rizal branches have been established by Philippine diplomatic missions in Spain, the Czech Republic, New Zealand, the United States, Oman, Laos and Cambodia.